Influenza is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by multiple viruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Swine flu, or H1N1, is a novel flu virus that began spreading worldwide in 2009. As with the seasonal flu, swine flu can be a mild to severe illness in toddlers. Toddlers with existing health conditions are at a higher risk of complications, but their risk is generally higher than that of a healthy adult, according to the CDC. Knowing the symptoms of swine flu can ensure proper treatment for your toddler.
Primary Symptoms
The symptoms of swine flu resemble the seasonal flu except that they may be more severe. A toddler may have a fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills or fatigue. The CDC suggests that some toddlers with swine flu may not have a fever.
Additional Symptoms
Toddlers may have vomiting and diarrhea with swine flu, according to Flu.gov. This symptom is not common among adults. A toddler with a fever, vomiting and diarrhea is at risk of dehydration. It is common for toddlers with the swine flu to have a lack of interest in eating and drinking or even be unable to eat. Report signs of dehydration to a medical provider right away as this complication can be serious. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, crying without tears, decreased urine production or a lack of wet diapers.
Severe Symptoms
Any severe signs of swine flu should be treated with emergency medical care. The CDC suggests immediate attention for toddlers who have rapid breathing, trouble breathing, blue or gray skin discoloration, severe or persistent vomiting, trouble waking, not interacting with others or being so irritable that they do not want to be held. Any child who appears to have swine flu and already has a health condition, such as heart or lung disease, diabetes or asthma, should receive medical attention. If flu-like symptoms improve but then a fever and worsened cough appear, the CDC recommends treatment right away.
